Last Saturday was the first day of 2011 that I wanted to be outside. My friends and I took full advantage of the weather and spent the day walking around Central and Harvard Squares eating, shopping and exploring. Like most hungover and walking-filled weekend days, we burned out around 3:30 pm and decided to grab a drink. Plus it was my birthday weekend, so there was no reason not to start drinking, and amazing craft cocktails at that! Upstairs on the Square was between lunch and dinner so the place was practically empty and perfect for our mid-day rompy romp.

Up first, the Jackie O, which exceeded my already high expectations. And it was beautiful! Writing this actually makes me nostalgic because it was so perfect. The bartender mixed Stoli Orange, creme de cassis, and apricot nectar then topped it off with a generous amount of champagne. It was fruity and floral and the champagne balanced it with a slight bitterness. My afternoon cocktail companion Erika went for the Lovely Kathleen, made with vodka, elderflower liqueur, creme-de-violette, and lemon juice. The almost minty elderflower taste and the floral violet flavor blended perfectly for a super light martini with a smooth finish. For my next cocktail I wanted to get something with egg whites, there is just something so irresistible about that fizz. Drink porn anyone? This one was called the Upstairs Fizz and had tequila, lemon, egg white and orgeat liqueur and nutmeg. Light and refreshing, yes. Better than my beloved Jackie O, hell no. Ah, rosemary. We like you. Anyway, this is The Aprile which contains Aperol (an Italian aperitif), grapefruit, gin and rosemary. Not my favorite because gin isn’t really my thing but it was thoroughly enjoyed by others!

We had a fabulous time talking to the bartenders about cocktails and enjoying the sun streaming through the windows which made for a comfortable and relaxing setting. Bottom line: I have a crush on Upstairs on the Square and want to start dating exclusively.

I just stumbled upon your blog when I was looking for restaurants to go to with my family for my college graduation in a month… I love it! Your tone, content, and pictures are really enjoyable- great job!